The Rise of Sauron: Power, Loyalty, and Corruption

Sauron's Inherent Power

Sauron’s formidable power and knowledge are deeply rooted in his nature, originating from his creation and the environment in which he thrived. As one of the Ainur, he inherited natural magical abilities from the lofty Ainulindal?, the music and creation of the world in the mythology. Furthermore, the centuries that Sauron spent in pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment allowed him to develop a profound understanding of magic and strategy. This blend of inherent power and long-term learning is what shaped Sauron into the master manipulator and cunning strategist he became.

Power and Loyalty

The idea that Sauron was a mere servant of Morgoth, initially, is intriguing yet inconsistent with his eventual rise. Morgoth, despite occasional manipulation, seemed to encourage his servants, particularly those as loyal as Sauron, to seek and achieve power in their own right. Morgoth's relationship with Sauron was more one of a master letting a loyal servant do what was needed without constant micromanagement, giving Sauron ample opportunity to thrive and grow in power. As Morgoth began losing his power, Sauron was in the ideal position to capitalize on the power vacuum, a move that would have been inconceivable under Morgoth's direct control.

Eschewing Loyalty for Ambition

The corruption of Maiar to serve Morgoth often led those corrupted, like Sauron, to believe that they could gain immense power, stability, and rulership by aligning themselves with him. However, Sauron, often described as 'Mairon' in the early part of his existence, saw beyond Morgoth’s destructive ambitions. He aspired to order and structure, values that Morgoth could not comprehend or support. This difference highlighted a fundamental conflict: Sauron believed in constructive, ordered governance, while Morgoth’s true goal was the annihilation of Arda.

The Power Gradient Among Maiar and Valar

The Maiar and Valar in Tolkien’s universe are not created equal. Sauron, originally a Maiar of Aul?, gained significant power due to the immense abilities of Aul?. Aul?, being a lesser Vala compared to Manw? or Morgoth, already possessed considerable power. Sauron, drawing his strength from Aul?, and then deviating from the Aulean path by embracing evil, amplified Sauron’s already considerable power.

Conclusion

Sauron’s rise was not a direct reflection of power stolen from Morgoth; rather, it was a result of his innate abilities, his ambition, and his exploitation of the power vacuum left by Morgoth's defeat. Sauron’s journey is a testament to the complexities of power, loyalty, and corruption. His story remains a cautionary tale in the annals of literature, highlighting the dangers of unchecked ambition and the perils of darkness.